Latest Update (April 24, 2025): Forty-eight hours after the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley, which claimed 26 lives and injured 17, India’s security agencies have publicly released their preliminary findings. Meanwhile, the central and state governments are intensifying efforts to apprehend the attackers, tighten border security, and launch diplomatic countermeasures.
1. The Deadly Assault: Quick Overview
Date & Location: On April 22, 2025, at approximately 2:30 PM, terrorists opened fire in the scenic Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam.
Casualties: Twenty-six tourists—25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen—were killed instantly; 17 more sustained serious injuries.
Perpetrator Claim: A previously unknown group calling itself the “Kashmir Resistance” claimed responsibility, stating its intent to “oppose outsiders settling in the Valley.”
2. Preliminary Investigation Findings
Local Facilitator Identified: Authorities have named Adil Thokar, a local youth who reportedly received terrorist training in Pakistan, as the guide for the attackers.
Weapons & Infiltration Route: The assailants used AK-47 rifles, hand grenades, and suicide vests. They entered via unmanned side trails off National Highway 44, abandoning two motorbikes at a makeshift camp before striking.
Proxy Organization Link: Intelligence suggests “Kashmir Resistance” is a front for either Jaish‑e‑Mohammed or Lashkar‑e‑Taiba based in Pakistan, though Islamabad denies any connection.
3. Immediate Government Response
Security Reinforcements: Over 2,000 additional troops—including CRPF, ITBP, NSG commandos, and Jammu & Kashmir Police—have been deployed in the region.
Border Security Measures: Enhanced drone surveillance and biometric checkpoints have been established along the India‑Pakistan border, especially near Akhnoor and Uri sectors.
Tourist Rescue & Relief: Civil aviation authorities arranged special flights and waived rebooking fees. Emergency medical camps are operational in Jammu, Srinagar, and Ramban.
4. Diplomatic Countermeasures
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: India has temporarily halted water-sharing commitments under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty.
SAARC Visa Scheme Suspension: The SAARC visa‑exemption rule has been suspended; Pakistani nationals have been instructed to exit India within 48 hours.
Diplomatic Protests: India summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi to deliver a formal protest note. Several Indian diplomats in Islamabad have been recalled.
5. Leadership Statements & International Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Cut short his Saudi Arabia trip to return to Delhi, vowing “severe retaliation” and ensuring “no mercy” for those responsible.
Home Minister Amit Shah: Led an in‑field review of security operations and directed intelligence agencies to expedite suspect identification.
Global Condemnation: The UN, USA, UK, France, Germany, Australia, and over 20 other nations issued strong statements condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India.
6. Impact on the Valley’s Security Climate & Tourism
Tourism Plunge: Influx of visitors has dropped by 70%, with hotel occupancy down 60%.
Economic Blow: Local guides, guesthouses, and transport operators report revenue declines of up to 40%.
Relief Packages: The J&K government announced interest‑free loans and grants for affected tourism stakeholders, with damage assessments underway.
7. Next Steps & Long‑Term Measures
Special Investigation Team (SIT): An NIA‑led joint SIT with police and military officers will complete its report within 72 hours and make arrests.
Enhanced Surveillance Infrastructure: Installation of more drones, thermal cameras, IED detection systems, and all‑weather patrol roads in vulnerable zones.
Secured Tourist Corridors: “Pocket‑patrol” convoys, combining CRPF, local police, and civilian volunteers, will escort visitors along key trekking routes.
Counter‑Radicalization Programs: Employment initiatives, counseling, and rehabilitation schemes for youth at risk of recruitment by extremist groups.
